News from Astronics Ballard Technology! The Vertical Power Primary Power System was officially launched at Sun N Fun last week, and for those of you that weren't able to be at the show to see it in person, here are a couple of pics and some details.

The front or top side of the new case, this is a 3D printing of the new product from the CAD drawings.

The back or bottom of the case...here we have the main buss out lug and a canon plug for data and possible low power (start input and alt field wire will use this plug).

And here is the info board from the show-

I know there will be many questions coming...and I will answer all of them as best I can. ONE THING THOUGH...I AM LEAVING ON VACATION TONIGHT UNTIL MAY 11TH, SO PLEASE KEEP THAT IN MIND. I wanted to get this out there for you all to see that it's real!

Beta testing is slated to begin in July with production expected after that period, which is approximately 3 months. I want about 500 hours of test time on the beta units before it is released.

Price...well, we still don't know exactly where that will be at this time because we still have some minor engineering to iron out (alt field wire hookup is one), but as soon as I know, I will post the info. There are some numbers floating around in the $1200-1800 range for single and dual battery versions respectfully, but we just don't know for sure yet. It will be worth it though, I promise!

Not to mention this appears to be a $1200 solution to a <$200 problem. I was sincerely hoping the price point would be competitive, but wow.

And if the back plate is aluminum, which it appears to be, then I also question the assertion that firewall integrity is maintained.

In order to make this as reliable as possible, we went with top of the line components...we want you to use this and never have to send it back for repair. Yes it's more expensive...but we expect it to perform at the price point too.

The unit will be completely tested for all firewall conditions including flammability, vibration, and temperature, among a menu of other tests.

This is intended to be an absolutely superior product to what we are replacing and do the same thing the VPX did...completely modernize and simplify this system.

You know what guys - there's a reason why we chose to fly EXPERIMENTAL aircraft - there's something fundamentally WRONG with us ! As my brethren that will not venture away from their Pipers and Cessnas and Mooneys have repeatedly told me. Let's keep that in mind whenever we start to look at something just a little different and new.

Yep - my thought as well. Wiring up this section of the firewall was really pretty quick and easy.

...and this will be quicker and easier.

BUT, it's not just about time. It's not just about money. It's not just about the solution to a problem. What we are doing is making it better...overall. Modern. Reliable. Safer. Those are the things we are going for here and while price is a big factor when choosing products, we really feel this one will be worth every penny.

The VAFForums come to you courtesy Delta Romeo, LLC. By viewing and participating in them you agree to build your plane using standardized methods and practices and to fly it safely and in accordance with the laws governing the country you are located in.